The Top 10 Best Bread Bakeries in America

All the breads—country-French style, semolina, pane integrale—are made with organic flours and sea salt and baked in wood-burning ovens. It doesn't get any more artisanal than that. 141 Petaluma Boulevard North; 707-763-0161; dellafattoria.com

Get in line early: Baker Chad Robertson (and co-owner Elisabeth Prueitt) take the bread out of the oven around 5:00 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday. Can't get to the bakery? Pick up their amazing new book, Tartine Bread. 600 Guerrero Street; 415-487-2600; tartinebakery.com

Some of the city's top restaurants serve chef Linton Hopkins's focaccia, mini baguettes, and brioche—all of which are available at several area farmers' markets such as Peachtree Road and Dunwoody Green Market. 404-350-8877; hfbreadco.com

The finest upscale food market in Chicago is worth a visit for its artisanal bakery alone. Pamela Fitzpatrick and her team get kudos for the peasant sourdough, challah, and pretzel breads. 401 East Illinois Street; 312-410-7301; fox-obel.com

Richard Bourdon opened his legendary bakery, renowned for its sourdough, in 1986. This national treasure is a must-visit for every bread lover. 367 Park Street, Route 183; 413-274-3412; berkshiremountainbakery.com

Daily specials at the Twin Cities' best bakery include Pugliese (Tuesday), egg braid (Friday), and pain de mie (Sunday). Rustic and levain loaves are amazing any day of the week. 3220 West Lake Street; 612-822-1119; rusticabakery.com